Family Focus: Camp gives children safe space, warm meals

CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Sounds of playing children flow from new Outreach Christian Center and inside it's full of activity.

Pastor Brenda Stevenson created a summer camp to give kids a safe space.

"The children need something to do. My motto is 'keep kids busy, you keep them out of trouble,'" she said.

The doors are open nearly 12 hours a day, offering education and extracurricular activities for just $25 a week.

Families who can't afford to pay aren't turned away.

That includes Ellen Weaver.  She's grateful her two grandchildren were accepted.

"They gave me a scholarship, otherwise they wouldn't have been able to go to camp this summer. So it's been a blessing," she said.
The children love the camp for different reasons.

"We learn from the Bible, and we play lots of games and we read," said Hameed Cooper, Ellen Weaver's 8-year-old grandson.

"And I like the school lunches and breakfasts," said Samiyah Weaver, Ellen Weaver's 10-year-old granddaughter.

Meals are included.

"Some of the kids, the only meal they get is here and starting today they will get to take home a hot dinner," Stevenson said.

Friday night's to go menu was chicken, rice and vegetables.

The staff calls it a little more love for them to take home.

The camp runs right up until school starts back and is still accepting children in need.

For information on eligibility and how to enroll, call 704-398-1777.

WSOC